Ask Hydro
What would you like to know?
Our Manitoba Hydro video crew hit the streets to find out what's on our customers' minds. Turns out, you have all kinds of questions for us.
We recorded your questions, then recorded our experts providing quick and direct answers. Whatever you want to know, we have the people who can tell you.
Do you have a question you'd like to ask Manitoba Hydro? Watch for us at events around the province – maybe in your home town – to ask us on-camera. Or email your questions to ask@hydro.mb.ca and we'll answer with a video response, posted on this page.
(Looking for a quicker answer? Contact us.)
How does Manitoba Hydro store electricity that isn't used?
(1:30)
We can't store electricity, but constant and careful load forecasting helps us to manage the amount we generate at any given time.
How can I identify Manitoba Hydro meter readers when they come to my house?
(1:25)
All readers wear clothing with Manitoba Hydro Utility Services logos and they have Manitoba Hydro ID badges. If you're still uncertain, call us to verify at 204-480-5900 or 1-888-624-9376.
Is spray foam insulation more energy efficient than other insulation?
(1:02)
One type of insulation isn't more efficient than another, but proper installation can make all the difference.
Why are meter readings bi-monthly but bills are monthly?
(1:34)
In the months we don't do readings, we're able to estimate the energy usage of typical homes based on account history, weather, and customer changes that could affect their home's efficiency.
Why doesn't Manitoba Hydro accept credit card payments?
(1:24)
We don't accept credit cards because of the additional costs that would be incurred from associated merchant fees and convenience fees.
How deep underground are the residential electricity and gas lines? Do I have to call before planting?
(1:24)
If you are planning to disturb the ground deeper than 15 centimetres (6 inches), you will need to have your underground lines located and marked first.
At harvest time, our farm operation experiences significant voltage drops and trips breakers. How do we upgrade a line to handle the increased demand?
(1:34)
Call us and we'll come out to test your line for power quality. Customer Service Offices.
An electrical contractor can help you determine if you need to upgrade your service size.
Why do you only do furnace information and not air conditioning information?
(1:16)
In Manitoba, cooling only accounts for 3-5 per cent of our energy bills, while heating is significantly higher. If shopping for central air, a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating will mean improved efficiency.
How do water levels affect Hydro rates?
(1:53)
Today's water levels don't affect today's rates. Our planned rates take into account variability of water flows. However, extended periods of very dry or very wet conditions can affect rates in the future.
How does Manitoba Hydro use Aboriginal traditional knowledge in its planning?
(1:31)
Aboriginal traditional knowledge is integrated into our environmental assessments to help us better understand the impacts we may potentially have on an environment.
What is Manitoba Hydro paying in water rental rates today compared to 10 years ago?
(1:17)
The water rental rate we pay to the Province of Manitoba hasn't changed; it works out to about 1/3 of a cent per kilowatt hour. But our total payments fluctuate from year to year depending on the amount of water in the system.
Does a tankless water heater use less energy?
(1:27)
Yes, it operates more efficiently than a water heater with a storage tank, as it only heats water when needed. A tankless water heater is typically more expensive to install, however. Read more about home water use.
How much will it cost to get electrical service to the cottage lot I recently bought?
(1:29)
Many services are no charge, but that can vary widely, depending on:
- the length of service required;
- whether lines go overhead or underground;
- whether the lot is located in a pre-serviced subdivision.
Fill out an application for new service in Electrical/Natural Gas Service Applications and we'll be in touch. Or contact us to discuss.
Who's responsible for cutting trees near power lines?
(1:17)
We will make it electrically safe for our customers or contractors to be able to trim or remove trees. To arrange a site visit, contact us.
More about managing trees and plants around electrical equipment.
Is the new corporate headquarters building on the grid?
(1:47)
Manitoba Hydro Place is on the grid, but it's also the most energy efficient building in North America and operates quite differently from other buildings.
What is being done for displaced aboriginal communities?
(1:59)
We have programming and compensation agreements in place with historically affected communities. These days we collaborate with the bands and use Aboriginal traditional knowledge in our planning.
What does it mean when you see red spray paint marks and flags on your lawn?
(1:10)
The different colours of spray paint and flags mean we've been out to locate and mark your underground gas and hydro lines, so you don't accidentally dig into them.
What are Manitoba Hydro's plans for smart grid upgrades?
(1:10)
Our transmission and power supply systems are ready. We're now looking at electricity distribution. After that, we'll work with our customers to help them understand how they can participate more fully in the smart grid.
